Youatt recommended as new MSU provost

June Pierce Youatt, a distinguished scholar and teacher with an impressive record of service to higher education, is set to become Michigan State University’s next provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.

MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon will recommend her appointment to the university’s Board of Trustees for its approval at its April meeting. Youatt has been acting provost since January 2013.

Youatt possesses the unique combination of scholarly and administrative achievement, Simon said, and is fully committed to playing a significant role in advancing the values of MSU.

“Student, faculty member, administrator – June Youatt has contributed tremendously to Michigan State University,” Simon said. “While we had an excellent pool of candidates from which to select, I can think of no one better suited for the post of MSU provost.

“In addition to the wealth of experience she brings to the position, Dr. Youatt has a deep love for her university and our students. I am very pleased to recommend her as MSU’s next provost.”

The provost is the university’s chief academic officer, providing leadership for matters that affect academic programs, research and outreach involving faculty, students and staff.

“The challenge and excitement in the next few years will involve recognizing and building on all the opportunities that will be ours at Michigan State University,” Youatt said. “For all we’ve accomplished, there is so much more we can do and be. It’s such a privilege to step into the role of provost at this time and help shape that future.”

Youatt came to MSU as an undergraduate student, earning a bachelor’s degree in secondary education in 1973. She went on to earn a master’s degree (1976) and doctorate (1983) in curriculum and instruction from the MSU College of Education.

In 1983 she joined the faculty of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies and rose to the rank of full professor.

From there she moved to administration, where she served as associate provost for undergraduate education (2002-2006), senior associate provost (2006-2012) and acting provost.

In addition, from 1993 to 1997, she served as a specialist with MSU Extension, providing leadership to field staff in parenting education and developing programs for teaching parenting skills.

Youatt succeeds Kim Wilcox, who now serves as chancellor of the University of California, Riverside.

The MSU Board of Trustees is expected to act on Youatt’s appointment at its April 22 meeting.